Seafood
Mussel, Blue - farmed
Most Blue Mussels sold in the U.S. are native to where they're farmed. They filter plankton from the water and need no extra feed. Farmers raise them on ropes hung on structures placed in coastal waters, which causes little habitat disruption. Mussels can also be grown on the seafloor and harvested using dredges, a method which causes some disruption to bottom habitat.
Learn MoreMussel, Greenshell - New Zealand
Like other mussels, New Zealand's Green Mussels filter plankton and nutrients from the surrounding water, thereby improving water quality. Green Mussels are native to New Zealand, where they are farmed. Management there is strong; New Zealand's rigorous permitting process prevents habitat degradation by ensuring that farms are excluded from sensitive habitat areas.
Learn MoreMussel, Mediterranean
Although Mediterranean Mussels farmed in the U.S. are an introduced species, they are well established, and have not had negative effects on local ecosystems. Mussels feed by filtering water for plankton and nutrients, so no fishmeal or fish oil is needed to raise them. These mussels are raised on suspended ropes, which keeps habitat intact.
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